James warns of the power of the tongue. With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse those who are made in the likeness of God.

As we move deeper into a presidential campaign season, there is plenty of name calling going on out there. As the writer of the book of James might put it, there is a lot of deadly poison being spewed. We are taught to label each other so that we are always able to recognize the enemy.

The earthly ministry of Jesus took place in a politically charged time and many in Israel hoped that he might be the powerful political leader that could defeat their enemies.

And then they began to hear his campaign speeches…He called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and for the sake of the gospel, will save it. (Mk 8:34-35)

As followers of Jesus, what do we have to say?

All we have is Christ, crucified and risen.

And that is always enough.

It is life and hope. It is good news, and it is ours to share.

Questions To Ponder/Discuss1. What gets people more worked up, opposing religious views or opposing political views?
2. What are some of the most difficult aspects of being a Christian for you?
3. Read Mark 8:27-38 again. How would these words of Jesus be received today?

LIVE IT!
James reminds us that the words we say can bring real devastation. As Christians, we know that words can also bring life. This week, go out of your way to speak words of healing and hope. Together, our voices will raise a chorus of good news in a world starving to hear it.